Uncrowned Princess

45

The following morning, Isabella arrived at the office early, two steaming cups of coffee in hand. She nudged the door open with her elbow, careful not to spill.

"Good morning," she called out cheerfully as she entered.

Alex looked up from his laptop, his face breaking into a warm smile. "Ah, just in time! I was just thinking this room needed a bit of sunshine."

Isabella felt her cheeks warm slightly at the compliment. She crossed the room, extending one of the cups towards him. "I thought we could both use a pick-me-up after yesterday's number-crunching marathon."

"You're a lifesaver," Alex said, gratefully accepting the coffee. His fingers brushed against hers for a brief moment as he took the cup, causing Isabella to quickly withdraw her hand.

"It's nothing," she murmured, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Just a small thank you for all your help."

Alex took a sip and let out a contented sigh. "Now this is how you start a productive day. Ready to conquer the corporate world?"

Isabella nodded, moving to her desk. "Always," she replied, booting up her computer. As she settled into her chair, she couldn't help but feel a small flutter of excitement for the day ahead. Working with Alex made even the most daunting tasks seem manageable, even enjoyable.

As they both turned their attention to their work, Isabella found herself sneaking glances at Alex when he wasn't looking. She quickly pushed away the confusing thoughts that were starting to form, reminding herself of Ethan and the complexity of her current situation. With a deep breath, she focused on the screen in front of her, determined to keep things professional.

The morning stretched ahead of them, full of potential for both productivity and perhaps a few more of those unexpectedly pleasant moments that seemed to occur whenever Alex was around.

As Isabella was engrossed in her work, her phone suddenly lit up with an incoming video call from Jenny. She hesitated for a moment, glancing at Alex who was absorbed in his own tasks, then decided to answer.

"Jen!" Isabella exclaimed softly, her face brightening at the sight of her friend.

"Ella! How are you holding up?" Jenny's warm voice came through the speaker.

Isabella lowered her voice, conscious of Alex's presence. "I'm doing okay. It's been... challenging."

Jenny's expression turned sympathetic. "I saw the news, Ella. Listen, you have nothing to be ashamed of. Working at the hotel isn't a big deal. Those so-called friends who hurt you? They're the ones who should be ashamed. Remember, you've got me, and that's what matters. Don't let others' opinions get to you."

Isabella felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. "Thanks, Jen. That means a lot."

Suddenly, Jenny's face lit up. "Oh! I've got something to show you." The camera view shifted, and Isabella's breath caught as she saw Ethan astride Caramel, his horse.

Ethan and Caramel moved as one, racing across the field before gracefully clearing a jump. Isabella's heart raced, a mixture of pride and longing washing over her as she watched her boyfriend in his element.

"He's amazing, isn't he?" Isabella murmured, her eyes glued to the screen.

Jenny's voice came from off-camera. "He sure is. He's going to win this competition for sure."

"Of course he will," Isabella agreed, her voice full of admiration.

Suddenly, a voice behind her made Isabella jump. "Wow, he's really good."